Have questions about asbestos abatement? You aren't the only one. Here are some answers to frequently asked questions about abatement.
What is asbestos?
While many think asbestos is a chemical, it's actually a naturally occurring mineral. In fact, the term "asbestos" is a blanket term used to refer to any of the six fibrous minerals that can be found in asbestos-containing materials. With their unique properties, asbestos minerals are fireproof, flexible, chemically resistant, and durable.
Unfortunately, if asbestos fibers become airborne, they can be injected or inhaled and lead to serious health problems since the human body is unable to clear lodged fibers out. If they accumulate, these fibers can lead to the development of lung cancer and other complications.
Where can asbestos be found?
While most people today are hyper aware of the dangers associated with asbestos and will do anything to avoid it, that wasn't the case in pre-1980 construction. Asbestos is still found in many older homes and offices where it was used for vinyl and linoleum flooring alongside fireproofing materials and insulation of all kinds. It can also be found in asphalt shingles.
What are the health effects of asbestos exposure?
A short, one-time exposure to asbestos won't necessarily lead to health problems. The scary thing about asbestos is that exposures have a cumulative affect, which means the fibers continue to build up in your body every time you're exposed. If they build up in your lungs, it can lead to mesothelioma or asbestosis. No amount of asbestos exposure is considered safe.
How can I test for asbestos?
To ensure you don't risk asbestos exposure, the testing procedure is best handled by a licensed testing company that can safely retrieve a sample of the materials in question and send it to a lab for further analysis. Asbestos testing should be at the top of your to-do list if you are trying to maintain, upgrade, or renovate an older home.
How do you safely remove asbestos?
If asbestos is detected through testing, removing the material is a time-consuming process. The asbestos abatement procedure is actually quite involved and it requires a licensed crew to seal off the area, wear protective equipment, and follow proper disposal methods. After the abatement is complete, the company should also perform a deep cleaning of the area.
Albany Asbestos is a local asbestos testing/inspection company.
Albany Asbestos LLC is located in Albany NY that has performed thousands of inspections. Give us a call today for all of your asbestos inspection, testing and surveying needs.
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